How often should the integrity of sterilized items be assessed during storage?

The integrity of sterilized items should be assessed daily during storage to ensure that the items remain safe for use when needed. This frequent evaluation is critical because it helps identify any potential issues such as compromised packaging, changes in environmental conditions, or contamination that could arise over time. Regular checks ensure that any problems are addressed promptly, maintaining the sterility and safety of the items and preventing any risk of infection when they are eventually used in medical procedures.

While less frequent assessments like weekly, monthly, or yearly may seem adequate, they do not provide the necessary oversight to guarantee that sterile items remain uncontaminated and effective for use, thereby emphasizing the importance of daily checks in maintaining the highest standards of patient safety in healthcare settings.